Close
As ever, examination preparations are dominating the learning landscape at the start of this Summer Term and today marks the last of the three sets of Trials for A Level and GCSE students. Battle commences in earnest very shortly and I am sure you will join me in wishing all candidates the very best of luck.
Amidst the mopping of fevered brows, there has been a very happily breathless start to the term, including two blockbuster celebrations last weekend. Our traditional Sunday eucharist for the start of term included the sacraments of baptism and confirmation for 17 student and staff members of the community. This was preceded on Saturday by another red letter day: many hundreds of guests joined us to mark the installation of Justin White, our new Senior Provost and to enjoy the formal dedication of the new Chapel porch.
Marking the conclusion of a project which has been in process for 154 years (the building of the Chapel started in 1868) this was a truly joyous occasion. It was a typical Lancing day of bright sunshine combined with a wind that twisted with force around the building. There were gales of wonderful music and of laughter too. The Chapel has been a beacon on the Sussex landscape for generations and this day of festivity to mark the end of such epic labours felt long overdue. That the building was completed amidst the challenges of COVID and that this was our first truly large-scale gathering since the pandemic outbreak made the solemnity, beauty, and revelry all the sweeter.
With best wishes and in the hope that one and all enjoy this Bank Holiday weekend,
Dominic Oliver